Labrinth startled fans this month when he announced on Instagram that he was stepping away from the entertainment industry, calling out his label and HBO’s Euphoria. The message lands as the series prepares to return and while the composer still has major live dates on the calendar.

What happened

On March 13, British producer and singer-songwriter Labrinth (Timothy Lee McKenzie) posted: “I’m done with this industry. F*** Columbia. Double f*** Euphoria. I’m out. Thank you and good night x.” He did not explain what prompted the post, and representatives for HBO and Columbia Records had not publicly responded to requests for comment.

Why this matters now

The timing amplified the reaction. Euphoria Season 3 is set to premiere in April, and Labrinth’s music has been central to the show’s identity since its 2019 launch. He won an Emmy for Outstanding Original Music and Lyrics for his work on the series, and his track “All for Us” — co-created remotely with Zendaya — became closely associated with the show’s lead character.

Context and recent developments

  • Labrinth rose to wider attention through Euphoria but has long collaborated with artists including Sia, Diplo (as part of LSD), The Weeknd, Nicki Minaj, Eminem and Ed Sheeran.
  • He returned to score Season 2, made a cameo performing “I’m Tired,” and performed “All for Us” live with Zendaya at Coachella.
  • Last year he said he would work with composer Hans Zimmer on music for Season 3 — a collaboration both he and Zimmer publicly praised.
  • Despite the Instagram post, Labrinth remains on several public engagements: he’s scheduled to make his Ravinia debut with the Chicago Philharmonic on Sept. 2 as part of the venue’s renovated Hunter Pavilion season.

Fan and industry reaction

Fans flooded the Instagram comments with support and pleas for him to continue making music; several replies said they watch Euphoria largely for Labrinth’s score. Industry responses have been more muted publicly — outlets reported that HBO and Columbia had not immediately replied to inquiries — while colleagues previously celebrated his Emmy and noted his influence on the show’s tone.

What the near future looks like

Euphoria Season 3 is scheduled to premiere in April, and the show’s new season reportedly moves its timeline forward five years and introduces updated storylines for the main cast. Meanwhile, Labrinth’s confirmed Ravinia appearance and prior public statements about working with Zimmer suggest he was expected to continue contributing to major projects despite his Instagram declaration.

What to watch for

Expect updates from Labrinth’s team, Columbia or HBO in the coming days if his plans change or if there’s clarification on the post. Fans and music outlets will also watch whether he performs at Ravinia and whether his name remains attached to Euphoria Season 3 credits now that the show’s return is imminent.